ISRAEL – Clarification on Student Work Permission
The Ministry of Interior has published updated regulations around working permissions for students in Israel holding A-2 student visas. The regulations make it clear that work, whether part-time or full-time, is not permitted, unless the student qualifies for Oleh status under the Law of Return. Previously, this was not clear.
Oleh and the Law of Return
Under the Law of Return, Jewish immigrants are eligible for entry to Israel with “Oleh” status. The applicant must establish that he/she is either Jewish him/herself, or the child and a grandchild of a Jew, the spouse of a Jew, the spouse of a child of a Jew or the spouse of a grandchild of a Jew. Oleh status eligibility must be confirmed by the regional Ministry of Interior in Israel.
Students with Oleh Status
Students who qualify for Oleh status and wish to work must apply for a change of status in accordance with regulation 5.2.0001 of the Ministry of Interior and must also demonstrate that:
- The proposed work is part time only,
- The proposed work will not have a detrimental effect on their studies.
Action Items
- Review immigration status of employees in Israel, bearing in mind that A-2 student visas do not permit work to be carried out.
